Six MOUs signed to boost AI innovation, digital infrastructure, and trade between both nations
Malaysia and China are deepening their technological and economic ties through a series of new digital partnerships aimed at advancing artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and bilateral trade.
The collaboration, formalised on April 10, 2025, with the signing of six memoranda of understanding (MOUs), comes ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s anticipated state visit to Malaysia. The agreements were witnessed by Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo and Guangxi Governor Lan Tianli.
Strategic MOUs to Advance AI and Cloud Computing
Six MOUs were exchanged between Malaysian and Chinese technology companies and academic institutions. Among the key players, Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Co Ltd and Skyvast Cloud Sdn Bhd will collaborate to build sovereign AI cloud infrastructure using Huawei’s advanced servers and networking solutions.
Skyvast will spearhead the business development and market application strategy within Malaysia and ASEAN, positioning the country as a regional hub for secure AI-powered services.
Boosting E-Commerce, Logistics, and Public Services
TOGL Technology and Huawei Malaysia will jointly develop an AI-driven e-commerce and loyalty platform. In logistics, Huawei will partner with Tiong Nam Logistics Solutions to integrate AI and cloud capabilities into warehousing and supply chain operations.
Another significant MOU involves HeiTech Padu Bhd and MyEG Services Bhd, working with Huawei Malaysia to deploy AI for government services in immigration and transportation.
Academic Alliances for Spatiotemporal and AI Labs
Two international research labs will also be established. The China-Asean Spatiotemporal Intelligence Joint Lab will unite Guilin University of Electronic Technology and Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah. Meanwhile, Guangxi Minzu University and Tunku Abdul Rahman University will collaborate on an AI-focused joint lab.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim underscored the strategic importance of these partnerships during a courtesy call from Governor Lan. He reiterated Malaysia’s goal of becoming a regional AI hub and encouraged leading Chinese tech firms to set up their ASEAN headquarters in Malaysia.
Malaysia’s Two Countries, Twin Parks initiative with China continues to thrive, with 19 projects valued at RM25.68 billion (≈ S$7.68 billion) already approved, creating over 7,500 jobs. To date, RM20.77 billion (≈ S$6.21 billion) has been realised.
China-Malaysia Ties Set for Expansion
China remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year, with total trade reaching USD 106.04 billion (≈ RM469.71 billion) in 2024. The Guangxi region plays a pivotal role as China’s economic gateway to ASEAN.
Digital Minister Gobind expressed confidence that the visit and partnerships will bring lasting benefits. “Let us work hand in hand to shape a future where AI serves the people, strengthens our economies, and uplifts the region as a whole,” he said.
These landmark agreements not only bolster Malaysia’s digital transformation ambitions but also position both nations to jointly lead Southeast Asia’s AI and digital economy development. As Malaysia prepares for President Xi’s upcoming state visit, the foundation has been set for deeper strategic and technological alignment.
Sources: The Star (2025), The Edge Malaysia (2025)
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Technology, Malaysia China Trade, Guangxi Malaysia Relations, ASEAN Digital Growth
